I’m terrified to try skydiving… so I’ve done some research

Jun 8
2 min read

Skydiving looks really fun, but it also seems really terrifying… why should I jump out of the airplane?? I decided to learn more about it to see if that would help ease some of my anxiety - and it did! Skydiving started to feel a lot more approachable (and a lot more fascinating). Here are some stats and fun facts that give beginners a clearer picture of what jumping out of a plane is really like.

The Big Picture: How Safe Is Skydiving?

In the United States, there are roughly 3–3.5 million jumps per year.
According to the United States Parachute Association, the fatality rate is about 1 in 200,000 jumps.
For tandem skydives (the kind beginners do), the risk is even lower—closer to 1 in 500,000.

Put another way: you’re statistically more at risk driving to the drop zone than making the jump.

What the Experience Is Actually Like

Typical jump altitude: 10,000–14,000 feet
Freefall time: 30–60 seconds
Parachute ride: 4–7 minutes
Total experience: Around 15–20 minutes from exit to landing

During freefall, you’ll reach speeds of about 120 mph (193 km/h)—but it doesn’t feel like falling. It feels more like floating on a powerful cushion of air.

How Popular Is Skydiving?

Skydiving is done in 100+ countries worldwide
The U.S. alone has over 200 drop zones
The largest skydiving event ever involved 400+ people forming a single formation in freefall

Fun (and Slightly Wild) Facts

You don’t get that “stomach drop” feeling after the first couple seconds—your body quickly adjusts.
Most beginners jump tandem, meaning you’re harnessed to a certified instructor the entire time.
Modern parachutes are actually “ram-air” wings, meaning they glide forward and can be steered like a plane.
The first successful parachute jump dates back to 1797, when André-Jacques Garnerin jumped from a hot air balloon over Paris.
Skydivers can control their direction in freefall using body position alone—no controls needed.

Final Thought

Skydiving sits in that category of adrenaline-inducing activities that, for me, often require that extra inner monologue of self-talk. Waiting in line for that massive rollercoaster ride - terrifying! Climbing the ladder to the platform for the high dive at the pool - what am I doing?? But each of those have left me grinning from ear to ear after, so I guess it’s time to do the same with Skydiving!